Roy W. Reser

Roy William Reser, aged 80, of St. Marys, Kansas, departed this world for greener pastures on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Stormont Vail Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 19, 1944, in St. Marys, Kansas, Roy was the cherished son of Ervin and Minnie Holz Reser.

Growing up on his family's farm in St. Marys, Roy cultivated a deep connection with the land and community. He attended St. Marys High School, graduating in 1962, and served with pride in the Kansas National Guard. His journey through life was marked by dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his loved ones.

On September 10, 1966, Roy married the love of his life, Mary Ann Flerlage, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in St. Marys. Together, they built a life full of love and togetherness. Mary Ann survives him, cherishing the memories they made together. Roy’s legacy lives on through his children, Kelly (Todd) Brown of Rossville, KS, and Douglas (Melanie) Reser of St. Marys, KS, as well as his 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Other surviving family members include his son-in-law, Vernie Catron, his sister, Lola Stevans, and many adoring nieces and nephews.

Roy was predeceased by his parents, his sister Betty Wells, and his beloved daughter Vicky Catron, whose loss brought great sadness to the family.

Roy exemplified an extraordinary work ethic, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to every endeavor. For 30 years, he worked as a meat cutter for Falleys, demonstrating his commitment and skill. Following his retirement, Roy pursued his true passion as a full-time cattle rancher, a role that brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

An avid outdoorsman, Roy reveled in the beauty of nature and the thrill of adventure. He spent countless nights and weekends playing baseball and softball, and he and Mary Ann delighted in dancing almost every Saturday evening. Roy’s love for hunting and fishing was well-known, and he took immense pride in raising coon hounds for hunting. The stories of his adventurous coon hunts are legendary.

Roy's enthusiasm for team penning and ranch rodeos, often shared with his son, highlighted his zest for life. He attended every sporting event and rodeo of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always their biggest supporter.

Above all, Roy’s family was his greatest source of pride and joy. He cherished every moment with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, instilling in them the values of hard work, love, and laughter. Roy William Reser will be fondly remembered for his playful and mischievous spirit, leaving behind a legacy of light and laughter that will forever warm the hearts of those who knew him. His memory will continue to shine brightly in the lives of his family and friends.

The rosary will be recited for Roy at 5:30 PM on Thursday, March 13 at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 703 Main St., Rossville, KS and will be followed by a visitation until 8:00 pm in Dekat Hall at the church. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:30 AM on Friday, March 14, also at St. Stanislaus, followed by interment in Rossville Cemetery.

Everyone is invited to join the family following the burial for a luncheon at the American Legion Post 31 in Rossville to visit and share memories of Roy.